Zen Windows Reviews

Read 36 Zen windows reviews from homeowners and contractors to explore popular series such as the Karma, Nirvana and Lotus window models.

Have a question for our site editors, Dane or Tim? Email them and let them answer your specific project questions. Make sure to include your email address so they can get back to you directly (we never use or sell your email, we promise.)

Editor's Zen Window Review

Zen Windows sells Soft-Lite Windows, an Ohio based vinyl window manufacturer who enjoys one of the better reputations in the industry for quality windows and patio doors. The company sells three window series; the Karma, Nirvana, and the Lotus, which are based on the Soft-Lite Barrington, Classic, and Pro Series, respectively.

The Zen Karma uses a narrower frame than the Classic and Pro; it's considered their entry level series. The Classic and Pro models, however, are good performing windows that might lack some of the newer features of the Imperial LS and Elements models, but still are tried and true high quality vinyl windows.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Zen Karma Windows Reviews

The Zen Karma is the company's entry-level offering and is actually a relabeled Soft-Lite Barrington window. While Soft-Lite is often in the conversation as a top tier vinyl window manufacturer, the Barrington isn't my favorite window by any means. It's quite decent when compared to other company's entry level windows, but that isn't saying much. In general, I don't recommend that consumers go with the low end offering if they are looking to maximize long term value.

The Zen Karma series includes the following standard features: double weatherstripping, a lock/tilt latch, constant force balancing, and a nice exterior molding. Consumers can get the Karma model in brown, beige, or white or beige for the interior and exterior. While I would suggest most consumers "stretch" into the Nirvana or Louts models (similar and both quite good), the Karma window isn't a bad option for budget conscious consumers.

Dan - Site Editor

Zen Karma Windows vs. Wincore 7700

Hi! We are in Nashville TN. I wanted to put mostly Nirvana in. I chose that over a $1500 lower Wencoe 77O0 bid because he’s an independent guy with a few good reviews vs Zen ( only 1 owner though) w/ a lot of good reviews.

Also does Wencoe have less glass view area than Nirvana as it seems?

Is it ok to use Karma For the 2 in the garage that we’ll never open that look towards front street and also 1 each in two side bedrooms. The only reason I would not do Karma there is if the sashes / frames will sag eventually? PleAse let me know.

Also we have only 1-2 south facing windows, with little direct sun. Wencoe has SHG 0.19-0.21 and Nirvana 0.28. The home doesn’t get hot now with old rotted wood windows so I don’t think I need upgrade to the reflective 0.21 nirvana glass correct ?

And Is it True the 0.21 glass trade-off is the home won’t get as warm from the sun reflecting away in the winter?

Thank you.

Vicki - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Vicki, the Wincore 7700 window is a good one, but the Zen Nirvana is the better of the two in my opinion. Better to spend the $1500 more on the better window from the company that has the better reviews and reputation.

I haven't looked at these two windows side-by-side, I would think the Nirvana has more glass area, but I couldn't say by how much.

It's fine to use the Karma windows in the garage. The Karma should definitely not sag over time, that only happens with poorly made windows and usually in bigger openings where the frame is supporting more weight across the span. The Karma window is still generally a good window, but the Nirvana model is definitely a step up.

If heat isn't an issue, you won't need the upgrade to the lower SHGC glass. The new vinyl windows will let in less heat than your older wood windows.

The higher the SHGC number, the more heat is allowed to pass through the window. The basic trade off is that in winter your house will allow in a bit more heat through the glass (a good thing) and in summer your house will let in a bit more heat (a bad thing). Unless you live in one extreme or the other, the standard SHGC that you mentioned with the Nirvana is just fine.

Good luck with the project. Let me know how it goes!

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Zen Karma Window And The Silverline 8600

My husband and I are replacing 10 windows and our contractor likes the Silverline 8600 window,

Not many reviews on the 8600 windows. We are on a budget and don't plan to be in the house for that many more years.

Any opinions or comments would be great.

Joni - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Joni, if you won't be in your place for much longer, then the quality of window becomes much less important. The Silverline 8600 would be okay, along with the following recommendations.
Ply Gem Pro Series
Soft-Lite Barrington
Zen Karma
Milgard Styline
Simonton VantagePointe Series
Silverline 9500Simonton Daylight Max

Zen Nirvana Windows Reviews

The Zen Nirvana is a relabeled Soft-Lite Classic window. This is an upper end mid range vinyl window that has been around for quite some time, but is quite a good design. It comes with nice features, components, and options. It's a step down from the Soft-Lite Imperial LS and Elements, but still quite a good vinyl window.

The Zen has a U-Factor of .29, SHGC of .28, and an Air Leakage of .07. These are all very respectable numbers.

Tim - Site Editor

Zen Nirvana vs. Harvey Sliding Doors

I am replacing 2 patio sliders. Down to 2 quotes. Harvey at 2 for $4900 inc tax and install. They have one door model double glazed. Zen Nirvana at $5900 inc tax and install. From what i read Zen is certainly better - the Nirvana has the same energy efficiency ratings or better than Harveys triple glazed upgraded door. I talked zen down from $7200 already but partly based on down grading one door from Lotus triple glazed. Is Zen worth $500 extra per door? I think Harvey is good also. Both installers have good reputations.
Love your view. Your site has been so helpful.

Jay - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Jay, I would say that the Zen door is worth the extra $500. You are correct, Harvey is good. With good installation, I'd say either one would be a good option. If it were me though, I would probably go with the Zen Nirvana over the Harvey door.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Zen Nirvana vs. Polaris Thermalweld

Tim, I have 11 aluminum original windows to replace. There is no j-channel around them. The 2 quotes I really like are from zen and a local guy. Zen Nirvana price is 5350 with an additional 25 per window for j-channel. To upgrade to lotus is 100 per window. The local guy sells Polaris. His price has the channel included. Thermaweld is 5940 and to upgrade to the Ultraweld is 75 per window. Which do you believe is the better way to go.

Joe - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Joe, all four strike me as good price quotes on high quality windows. The best window of the bunch is the Polaris Ultraweld, one of the best vinyl windows on the market in my opinion. It looks like it comes out to $615 per window, which is a darn good price with the j channels and installation. This is what I would try to stretch into over the Soft-Lite Pro, which is not as good as the Ultraweld.

Honestly, any of these is good, but that's my take on it.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Zen Nirvana vs. Seaway Windows

Would you rate Seaway equivalent to the Nirvana just so I have some knowledge for comparison when I see quotes?

Darren - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Darren, I don't know a lot about Seaway, but Soft-Lite who makes Zen windows has a better reputation than Seaway. Soft-Lite is a top tier more-or-less national manufacturer, while Seaway tends to sell in a smaller area. Seaway carries two lines of vinyl windows from the little I know. I would imagine that their premium Ovation is somewhere close to the mid range Soft-Lite Classic or Zen Nirvana. In order to confirm this, I'd look at the U-factor, air infiltration, design pressure rating and condensation resistance.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Zen Nirvana vs. Harvey Classic

I am just starting my window search but am in the Boston MA area and have looked into Zen Windows since they are highly rated in this area. I got a quote for 21 windows, all average size, at $675 window for the Nirvana or $775 window for the triple pane Lotus. I am sure in my area the costs are a bit higher in general but would you say that the difference in 100 dollars per window is a good enough price to consider the Lotus over the Nirvana?

The only other estimates I have received are from Pella and Anderson both priced at over 1000 per window, though Pella would be a full install whereas Anderson and Zen are replacement installs. Will still look at another company that carries Seaway just for some pricing. Thank you for your advice and help.

Darren - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Darren, I'm not sure I would say that the Lotus is worth $100 more than the Nirvana. The Nirvana is the Soft-Lite Classic and the Lotus is the Soft-Lite Pro. Some dealers sell a Lotus Plus, which is the Soft-Lite Imperial LS and this is definitely worth the $100 extra.

$775 does sound high for the Soft-Lite Classic (Zen Lotus), although it does use a triple pane glass so that's probably a decent part of that extra money.

I'd be curious to see how the Seaway comes in at.

I would also get a quote on the Harvey Classic, which is pretty comparable to the Nirvana model. Harvey makes a good vinyl window in general.

Once you have those four quotes then I think you would be in a good position to either try and see who will lower the bids or to simply choose the best window/price combination.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Zen Nirvana Classic vs. Sunrise Essentials

We're in Maryland and need 19 windows replaced. We have two quotes; one for the Zen Nirvana Classic and the other for the Sunrise Essentials. The bids are nearly the same price.

Dulce - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Dulce, the Zen Nirvana or Soft-Lite Classic is the better window over the Sunrise Essentials. The Classic is a very good mid range window and the Essentials is a good entry level window. So the Classic is the winner by far.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Zen Nirvana vs. American Exteriors

Tim, I found your site searching for replacement vinyl windows. I used your from and so far haven’t heard from a company I wanted to deal with. American Exteriors gets bad reviews from everyone but Angie’s List yet there were the first to call me.

I have gotten a quote from the local Zen window dealer. 4 Nirvana’s with extra solar tinting for 3 to replace some old vinyls. It came in at $3139, way higher than your guess. When I questioned that in an email they said that was their price, no room to dicker. I will also get a SoftLite and at least one other non-franchise local outfit. What is your take?

Lew - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Lew, I don't control who the bids come from and the companies will vary by location. I agree that American Exteriors does not get glowing reviews so don't use them (unless you happen to be impressed by their windows/company), but do get a bid from them. The bids help you gather information and get pricing ideas -- plus they cost you nothing but time.

Zen tends to have a good reputation but that bid is too high on the surface of it. You need more bids to get to the fair market price for your 4 windows. Remember there are a good 20 factors that can drive the per window cost of your project up or down so the more bids you get, the more certain you'll know what the appropriate price range is. There are plenty of times when the per window cost is $850 per window (especially if work has to be done to the sills or walls).

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Zen Nirvana or Pella 250

We are replacing exactly 21 windows, one of which is a half circle. We have 2 bids so far. Is this enough or should we get more? Here are the bids.

[Site Editor's Answer]

Dorothy, the Zen Nirvana is better than the Pella 250 window in my opinion. The bid is also considerably lower so my answer is go with better quality and a lower cost!,

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Zen Nirvana or The Polaris ThermalWeld

I’m in Cleveland, OH and want to replace 21 double hungs windows with something decent, but not super expensive. All 21 windows have low-E glass, grids, argon gas, and foam fills. 7 of them have tempered glass. This is what I have so far.

The two front runners are the Polaris and Zen bids. What is your take?

Carl - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

You are right about the Polaris and Zen bids, the Zen Nirvana at $514 per window is very good. is excellent. But the Polaris UltraWeld at $575 per window is maybe even better. I think the UltraWeld is worth the extra $60 per window. That is what I would go with.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Zen Classic vs. Pella 400 & Marvin Ultimate

We need 18 double hung windows, 10 of which are oversized and the others are normal size. We have bids from Zen, RBA, Pella, Sierra Pacific, and Marvin. Next week we will get a quote on the Softlite Imperial LS.

Thanks - appreciate your help!

Neil - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Neil, of the bids you have, the Softlite Imperial LS is going to be the highest quality window. Marvin makes a very good fiberglass window, but it's going to be more expensive than the Imperial LS and not have the same ratings.

Zen Nirvana or Louts would be next in line – very solid vinyl window.

You have quotes from companies that make wood clad windows. I'd be wary about wood windows for a number of reasons.The Softlite Imperial LS will come in an interior laminate so thats a nice option to have.

[Site Editor's Answer]

Vincent, Zen Nirvana is the best window, followed by the Ply Gem 6000 series, the ViWinTech 6000, and finally the Pella ThermaStar, which is an awful window. So I guess the prices themselves make sense.

I think the Zen Nirvana is the winner, but you might want to try to see if the dealer will come down off that price. Maybe use the other two bids as leverage.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2017

Zen Windows vs Wincore Windows

I have 5 quotes listed below for my Austin Texas location. What is my best option or should I look for more quotes. Project scope: 15 total windows, some large some eyebrows with legs..

[Site Editor's Response]

Jon, I like the Soft-Lite Classic (Zen Nirvana), but it's also your highest bid so I don't want to pick it without giving you a little more of my take on all your other bids. Wincore makes a decent window, but I like their upgraded 7700 series more. I'd be curious what the company who gave you that bid would price out the 7700 at...if it's at $12000 or less it's definitely something to consider.

Forget the Zen Karma, I don't think that window is very good. Simonton's VantagePointe is just sort of okay in my opinion.

Installation quality has to come into effect so make sure that whoever you go with offers quality installation, good reviews and a labor warranty on their work.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Zen vs Simonton Windows

Our local distributor carries Simonton, Silverline, and Pella, along with some other companies I've never heard of. I can't seem to find any of the companies you mentioned as liking. I did find a Zen dealer maybe 50 miles away, but I don't know if they will come this far.

I may be stuck with the Simonton Platinum Prism or Reflections 5500.

Nita - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Well the 5500 series is very solid. Still, see if the Zen dealer will come give you a quote on their Nirvana, Lotus or Lotus Plus (if they sell this one).

It always helps to have as many bids as possible and helps to negotiate the best price.

[Site Editor's Response]

Of the quotes you have I like the Zen quote the best (which is either the Soft-Lite Classic or Pro). Alpen makes quite a good window, but the Huntington is their lower end window and I wouldn't go with that one.

The other bid I like is the Alpen 525. The performance data on the Alpen fiberglass windows is pretty darn impressive and this is a very good window.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Zen vs Simonton Platinum Prism

I have three bids on 18 windows. Which window do you think is the best and which is the best deal? The Zen Nirvana and Simonton Platinum Prism are so close in price that maybe they are equal?

[Site Editor's Response]

Margaret, the Platinum Prism is quiet good; probably equal to the Craftsman Portrait. However, the Zen Nirvana, or Soft-Lite Classic, is the best of these three windows.

So the Simonton Platinum Prism is probably out. Either one of the others would be my pick. I would probably pay the extra money and go with the Zen Nirvana. Good window and good price.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Zen Windows Price Quote

I have a cost quote of $12,900 for 20 Zen windows, the model is Nirvana (Classic) with half grids. Is this price bid reasonable? I am located in Massachusetts. This price included the installation.

Wing - Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Wing, without knowing any additional details, I would say that is a fair price. $645 for the classic, with installation, does not seem excessive. I would get a couple more quotes - Okna and Sunrise should be available in your state -get a quote from each of these to make sure that the price quoted is the fair market price for your particular project.

It is interesting you mention Nirvana, which is one of the window models of Zen Windows, essentially a private reseller of Soft-Lite windows, although I don't know much more about the relationship than that. Essentially, the Zen Karma is the equivalent to the Soft-Lite Barrington, the Zen Nirvana is the equivalent to the Soft-Lite Classic, and the Zen Lotus is the equivalent to the Soft-Lite Pro. I would avoid the lower end Karma, but the Nirvana and particularly the Lotus are very well made windows. Peace. :)

Zen Lotus Windows Reviews

The Zen Lotus is a relabeled Soft-Lite Pro window, which although not a new design by any means, is a very good vinyl window. The Soft-Lite Classic and Pro are quite similar to one another, achieve good performance numbers and are quite well made.

The Lotus comes standard with some nice features and components, including a super spacer, good vent locks, frame foam fills, locking screen latch, delta safety locks and a metal reinforced meeting rail. It can be ordered in a number of interior wood laminates, as well as some 15 exterior color options. I especially like the wood laminates, which look quite realistic and provide the look of wood, without the cost and maintenance requirements.

The Zen Lotus has a U-Factor of .21, SHGC of .26, and a Air Leakage of .06. These are solid numbers all around.

Tim - Site Editor

Zen Lotus vs. Sunrise Standard

We have a huge project to replace our windows and some of them have some bad wood rot. 63 windows that include some large picture windows, eyebrow, rectangular transoms and half dome windows.

We have 3 quotes:

$59,250 on the Okna 500 Insultec double pane.

$61,575 for Zen Lotus (Soft Lite Pro) double pane.

$46,900 on the Sunrise Standard window double pane.

I'd considered a wood window because vinyl can't be painted and I'm concerned that it would force us to redo the trim and some color work in our home. Any thoughts?

Thanks for all your help!

Dave - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Dave, I'd rank these three windows as all pretty comparable. Perhaps I'd put the Zen Lotus and Okna 500 a notch above the Sunrise, but I still think the Sunrise is the best deal of the three. If the bids were closer in price, it might change my opinion.

I wouldn't go with a wood window because it's going to balloon your costs significantly from what you're looking at here. Instead, I'd contact the Sunrise dealer and see how much it would cost to do an interior wood laminate. These look very similar to a wood window species and don't sacrifice on energy efficiency or warranty timelines.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Zen Lotus Window Quote

Hi - I came across your website and was most intrigued and impressed with your unbiased reviews. I try to research before major purchases like this but it's daunting ....

I am wanting to replace the wood windows double hung, plus storm windows which have vinyl I think frames. The house was built in 1971 and I believe these are original windows. We bought the house 1987. anytime temperatures are in the 30's and for sure lower most all the windows are fogged. There are 19 windows to replace. I am wanting energy efficient, good quality, no painting upkeep, easy clean, good warranty and with professional quality installation. I have gotten a number of bids - and as said it's daunting. So many opinions... And have heard most windows are the same (?) but it's the installation that's the most important.

5 windows - 40x78

1 window (above sink) - 36 x 38

7 windows - 40x62

2 bathroom windows 32-38

1 basement window 36x42

3 basement windows 36x38

Windows now are painted bronze outside and white inside. I don't know what would be best - vinyl, alum clad wood - I want something that will hold up a long time and be good value. Double panes possibly with colonial grids or no grids.

Got bids from Home Depot - their 6500 windows but tan/white - for $22K but with their promotion would be $19K. Their 6100 windows tan/white for $18K or w/ promotion $15K.

Forst Builders bid Alside Mezzo windows but all white but with bronze trim on outside - $8400 but add $130 per window to paint (!) outside window. My concern is they said they use double strength glass for the large windows so need for safety glass -- but other companies say it's code to have safety glass since so large. Many neighbors have highly recommended them but cautious about the glass type -

Sterling Window systems quoted their Duragard Vinyl white inside/out $8K, white inside/cocoa outside $12K and white inside/bronze outside $15K - but the bronze is painted and not baked on ... Sterling windows was highly recommended by my wonderful handyman - but Sterling's bid was made in excel and not very detailed.

I did use American Home Design to replace a bay window (sashes and frame - not complete structure) in 2016 for $3880. At that time I was most impressed with their professionalize etc.. But leery about paying for all their tv ads! ...

I haven't gotten bids from Apex - at least not yet - mainly because of some bad reviews on customer service. And same for Zen windows... And have been cautioned about Anderson & Pella mainly because of high pressure sales.

I would greatly appreciate your thoughts and guidance.

Thank you!

Bee - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Bee, you have lots of bids so that's great. I don't love any yet though. A good quality vinyl window is the most energy efficient and cost effective option for most homeowners. The Simonton 6500 is a good window, but just way too expensive compared to the bids you have.

The Alside Mezzo is a decent price and a decent window, but long term I have questions about the overall strength of the frame. If you could get a glass upgrade and a composite reinforcement on the lift rail, I might consider this option.

I would skip on the Apex if I were you.

I don't know anything about Duragard, but I find this thread that has some good unbiased information, although now somewhat dated.
http://www.replacement-windows.com/windowbb/viewtopic.php?t=4937

Zen does have some bad reviews, but they sell a good window (Nirvana and Lotus, which really the Soft-Lite Classic and Soft-Lite Pro) and if your local branch has a good reputation then I think you should consider getting a bid from them on the Nirvana or Lotus -- these windows are much better than anything you have so far.

You are correct that installation is half the battle, the other half the window itself.

I'd google "sunrise windows in [your town, state]" and see if local companies sell these. I'd also do it for Okna, Soft-Lite, Polaris, Vytex, HiMark, Kensington, and PGT. Send me your bids again and let's see if we can't refine this down!

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Zen Lotus vs. Champion

We are going to replace a sliding glass door and 12 windows. We live in Denver and most of our windows face west facing and gets lots of sunlight. We live on a busy street and would like to get a window that reduces as much noise as possible.

[Site Editor's Answer]

Chris, $28K is too much money for a patio door and a dozen windows. So I would throw this one out.

I really like the Zen Lotus bid with the glass upgrade. The Soft-Lite Pro is a good vinyl window and the thousand is worth the price difference for the added energy efficiency. The solar gas is going to get you a lower passive heat, which is going to serve your purposes well.

Go back to Zen and show them your Champion bid and ask them to match it. Who knows whether they'll come all the way down to the $12K, but its certainly worth a shot.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Zen Lotus In Texas

My wife and I are building a custom home in Texas and need some help. The builder wants to use a MI vinyl window and from what I've read these aren't the best windows. In our current house, we have Andersen windows and haven't had any sorts of issues with them. Should we consider going with the MI brand or should we ask him to find us some other options?

Stan - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Stan, generally MI windows are not considered a very good vinyl window. They are mainly sold to builders who are looking to put in a lot of windows at a low per window cost. MI makes an Energy Core window that is quite good, but besides that I would pass on these options.

Texas has some nice options though. Don Young makes a very good aluminum window. Their vinyl windows are quite good as well.

There could be a Sunrise dealer near you. The Restorations series is extremely good and their classic or standard series is good.

There could be a Zen dealer as well. Their Zen Lotus and Zen Lotus Plus are both very good windows, on par with the Sunrise models I mentioned.

Finally, Simonton ought to be available in Texas -- the 9800 or Reflections 5500 series are the two I would go with.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Zen Lotus or Soft Lite Imperial LS

I need to replace 28 windows. I have vintage Rimco wood windows and newer Anderson 400 series as well. Over the years, I've replaced lots of the glass in the Rimco windows, but they need to go. I recently got a quote from Zen on their Lotus Triple Pane series for $575 each window.

The company also offers an upgraded Lotus Pro, which is apparently an even better window. So which should I go with? The Lotus Pro is an extra $100 per window.

Kevin - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Kevin, the Zen Lotus is a good window and will deliver an air infiltration of .07, U-factor of .28, vt of .53 and SHGC of .29.

The Lotus Plus, or Imperial LS, is certainly a step up -- an air infiltration of .02, U-factor of .28, vt of .44 and SHGC of .23.

I guess the big question is if it's worth $100 per window to make the step up. I tend to think the Lotus window, or Soft-Lite Pro, is a good window for many environments and climates. If I were in a very cold climate, I might consider the upgrade. Otherwise, I would probably save the money and go with the Lotus over the Lotus Plus.

Of course, if you can get them to come down off that price, maybe the step does make sense.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Zen Lotus vs Apex Windows

Guys, your website has helped educate me on the differences in windows. I am looking to replace 22 windows in an 1895 Queen Anne on the southside of Atlanta, GA.

I currently have three estimates and wanted your thoughts as well as potential other vendors to contact

Zen Windows Nirvana - $11,858

Zen Windows Lotus - $14,058 (+2200 on the Nirvana)

Apex Windows - $15,571 (told me that a price increase will occur on March 1 to try and pressure me to make a decision)

Marvin Infinity - $31,000 (about $5,000 is for sill work to replace some of the old wood (5 windows)

Thanks for your help!

Paul - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Response]

Paul, the best bids you have are on the Zen Nirvana or the Lotus. Nice pricing on both. I would probably spend the extra two grand for the Lotus window, which is a relabeled Soft-Lite Pro and quite a good vinyl window.

Apex is sort of known for their high pressure sales tactics, no need to look here.

I think this is sort of a no brainer, but I would see if I could get Zen to come down a bit in price (even though it looks good to me). Never hurts to try.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Zen Lotus Window And Soft-lite Elements

Trying to figure out whether the Zen Lotus is the same series as the Soft-lite Elements. The whole thing is confusing to me. It's pretty clear that the Zen Nirvana is the Soft-lite Classic. I live in Austin and while we don't have a Soft-Lite around, we do have a Zen. Any information you can shed would be appreciated.

Jen - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Jen, most Zen dealers sell three windows -- Karma, Nirvana, and Lotus. The Karma is the Soft-Lite Bainbridge, the Nirvana is the Soft-Lite Classic, and the Lotus is the Soft-Lite Pro Series.

The Bainbridge isn't a window I would give a strong recommendation too, but it isn't bad for an entry level vinyl window.

The Classic and Pro are good vinyl windows. Some Zen dealers do sell what they often call the Lotus Plus, which is a relabeled Soft-Lite Imperial LS. The LS is a very good window, but still a small step down from the Elements. The Elements is the premium Soft-Lite window, but is not carried by any Zen dealer that I have ever heard of.

Hope this helps!

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Zen Lotus Windows vs Alside 3100 Series

I'd like to get your take on the following bids, which includes tax, materials, labor, and haul away. It's for 14 windows.

[Site Editor's Answer]

Jim, of the two, I would definitely say the Zen Lotus for an extra $1300 is the way to go. They Lotus triple pane is a very good window. Alside makes an okay window, but not on the same level as Soft-Lite, which is what Zen dealers sell. See if the Zen dealer will come down off his price at all. I'd use the Alside bid as leverage

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

Zen Lotus or Simonton Prism Platinum

Need to replace 11 double hungs, plus a double casement. I don't need the best windows out there, but also want a window that will hold up for the next 20 years. I have a quote on a Zen Lotus window and a Simonton Prism Platinum. Nearly the exact same price, with the Zen just slightly less than the Simonton.

The Simonton bid is from a highly reviewed contractor and Zen has their own installers.

Alice - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Alice, the Zen Lotus is better than the Simonton Prism Platinum. Both are good windows though. Assuming you like the Zen installer and have checked their online reviews etc. this is what I would go with.

Zen Lotus Plus Windows Reviews

The Zen Lotus Plus is a relabeled Soft-Lite Imperial LS that is offered by a select number of Zen Dealers (at least this is our understanding). The Imperial LS is an impressive vinyl window and comes standard with some high quality features, including triple weather stripping, an Intercept Spacer, and a kevlar reinforced meeting rail. One of the most impressive numbers on the Imperial LS is the .03 air leakage rating.

Tim - Site Editor

Zen Lotus Plus or The Sunrise Restorations

I have 4 quotes from local companies. I'm in Nashville Tennessee and would like your opinion on what to do.

[Site Editor's Answer]

Ruby, those are good bids. The Elements and Kingsroyal Door is the best but almost the priciest. The Restorations and ProVia Door are probably equal actually. However, the Zen Lotus is the Soft-Lite Imperial LS, which is very close in quality to the Elements windows. The Dharma is the Kingsroyal so its kind of a no brainer to go with the $15.5K bid, which is a $8K less! Go with that one for sure.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Zen Imperial LS

I'm in touch with a Zen who sells the Imperial LS. A couple of the reviews on your website indicate the Pro model is not as good.

Mike - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Mike, the Imperial LS is a top tier vinyl window. The Pro is good, but it's an older design and doesn't include quite as many top tier components and features. Soft-Lite underwent some serious R&D to come up with the Elements and Imperials LS series, which are their flagship products. Both are good products, but the Imperial LS is a better window than the pro.

General Zen Windows Reviews

Zen And Prism Platinum

I have a quote on the Prism Platinum for dual double hung windows. THe opening measures 70 by 58. I wouldn't mind going with a slider though because the double hung has some much wasted space between the two double hungs.

The Zen dealer gave me a bid also but he wanted me to agree to the deal over the phone! Sight unseen!

Jan - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Jan, Simonton windows do tend to be a bit bulky, especially the DHs. I agree with you on the Zen replacement quote, I've never heard of someone asking you to agree to something over the phone without being able to see it.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Zen Window Replacements

I am attempting to assist me nephew and family who lost everything in Hurricane Harvey. They need to replace all windows and I have some questions and would like to get some bids for them.

Thank you.

Donnie - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Donnie, you are welcome to ask me any questions you have. In terms of vinyl windows I recommend in Texas, I would say a higher end Simonton Impressions 9800, Don Young windows (they make an excellent aluminum window and a good vinyl window), Milgard vinyl windows also has a line specific to the Texas climate. Finally, I believe there is a Zen windows in Houston that is certainly worth getting a bid from. Good luck with your project, I can't imagine how hard it must be to rebuild after Harvey!

Dane - Site Editor - from 2017

Zen or Window World

I have a bid for Window World Extreme Gold series. 14 windows, all triple pane, screens, and grids. Bid is $7000. What other window companies should I be looking at? I've heard Zen is a good option.

James - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

James, I can't comment on the Window World Extreme Gold, only because I've never hear of it. Usually I am not a big proponent of their stuff.

As far as Zen, they offer Soft-Lite windows. Their Karma window is a relabeled Soft-Lite Bainbridge and would be a great alternative to the WW EG.

Dan - Site Editor - from 2017

Zen Polaris UltraWeld Quote

Dane, I ended up with the following from Zen windows. They sold me the Polaris Ultraweld. The casement they offered was much better looking and the beveled design was quite nice. So far, I am VERY pleased with her everything turned out.

10 Casements: $550 each
1 Picture Window: $460 each

Kenneth - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Kenneth, the Polaris UltraWeld window is a very solid vinyl window. I'd never heard that Zen dealers were selling the Polaris window line, but it is a good one. It looks like a very fair bid. Congrats all around.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2017

[Ken's Reply]

Well my local ZEN franchise doesn't push Polaris and I didn't even know they had them until Bob, the guy from your site that you connected me to, let me know that he was going with Polaris through ZEN and was happy with their double hung windows. I had to wait 2+ weeks until John my local ZEN franchise guy could get the brand new casement demo window from Polaris to bring by my house.

The screen fit nicer than most other casement windows I examined and the outside of the window has an extra finishing piece around the glass that looks much nicer than most other windows that are simply flat on the outside. I am going with white and it was nice to see they used a white seal on the casement as opposed to say Heartland windows that ZEN also carries that has a black seal and basically looks like your window is outlined in black. John says he's asked Heartland to make them with white seals and they won't even though they use white seals on their double hungs.

I could not find air infiltration numbers for the Polaris windows, do you have any? But I figure that casement windows are usually pretty good in that regard. The numbers for heat, light, etc. were all very good with Polaris. I also liked the crank and hinge mechanism on the Polaris window as it seemed sturdier than some of the other windows I inspected and since I've had a casement window literally rip itself off the house on a windy day before, I wanted to be sure the hinge mechanism was stout.

Of course the greatest window in the world could be crap if it isn't installed right and I contacted a few people who had ZEN windows installed locally including Bob from your site and everyone spoke highly of the install crew and the job that was done, so I'm hoping for the best. I will, of course, update you after the windows are installed. Happy to send pictures if you'd like.

Zen Windows vs. Don Young

What is the price range I should expect for a 56x60 Sunshield 2 Lite professionally installed. The window sizes range from 48x60 to 48x72.

It is impossible to find comps on the various web sites.

Any help you can provide is appreciated.

Richard - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Richard, the reason it's so hard to find comps is that each project is so different from one another. There are tons of upgrades and options available on the windows themselves that throwing out a price per window is virtually impossible.

Get the bid from Don Young and then get a few more bids to compare it to. This is the best way to see what the fair market price for your project is. Maybe get a bid on a Milgard Tuscany, or from Zen windows, Gilkey if in your area, even Simonton (you want to stick to their Impressions or higher end Reflections series windows). Others to look for include Okna, Soft-Lite, Amerimax or Polaris.

Get your bids, compare them, and then use the different bids to get the lowest price on the bid that seems like your best option.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

Zen Windows vs Sunrise

I'm in Atlanta and we have access to a number of brands you seem to like -- Champion, Soft-Lite (Zen), Sunrise and Simonton.

We're looking at mid-range options and was wondering about your take on these brands.

Kathy - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Kathy, I like all four window brands you have up there. My two favorites are Sunrise and Zen. The Sunrise Classic and the Zen Nirvana and Lotus are going to be nice mid range options that will serve you well. Make sure to get good installation and make sure to properly vet the installers prior to the job. Look at online reviews and make sure they have a long track records of excellent to good work.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Zen Windows in Missouri

. But the sunrise with the full frame I was looking at I would have to take my trim off on the inside. If that's the case I didn't know if there was a better window to go with as far as new construction. I always thought Anderson was one of the better windows for new construction do you recommend any other window at a fair price for a good product

Chris - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Andersen Windows is an expensive window and they are best known for their wood clad windows (which are expensive, but very nice.) For most homeowners, I recommend staying with a quality vinyl window - they offer better value, performance and overall durability.

Did you see if Vista Windows or Zen Windows (these are essentially Soft-Lite windows) services your area? You are in Missouri, correct?

I think at this point you need to get a few bids from some more companies to get a consensus on whether you need to go with a replacement or new construction installation. You may get some variation in opinions, but by the third or fourth bid it should be clear what the best course of action is. You will also get a better sense of pricing with a few bids and get to see and feel the different windows out there.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Zen Windows In Denver

How do I get/find an honest contractor? I live in Denver metro and am constantly quoted $1,500 to $2,000 PLUS for a casement windows that are 36" x 42"

Thomas - Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

This is a lot of money if we are talking about any window that isn't wood clad (wood interior, aluminum or fiberglass exterior). However, I could seen this price if you have gotten bids from Pella, Renewal By Andersen, Loewen etc.

There are a number of ways to find a quality contractor that services your zip code, but this is my preferred choice. Find a local company who carries a quality line of windows and get 3 or 4 bids.

Marvin Infinity is a high quality fiberglass window that should be much more affordable than the price you quoted. They offer an interior woodgrain laminate that does a great job of mimicking the look of wood, without the maintenance required.

Sunrise ought to have several dealers in your area who can give you a bid. I found these guys doing a quick search for "sunrise windows denver colorado"

Soft-Lite markets their Zen windows in Denver and has a local dealer - google soft-lite zen windows denver and they should come up - don't go with their lower end window, use their mid range or premium option, the Nirvana and Lotus, respectively.

Amerimax is sure to have local Denver reps since the company is headquartered in Colorado. Amerimax is considered a step below Sunrise, but is still considered a good overall vinyl window manufacturer.